Spaceship One: A Milestone in Private Space Exploration

Spaceship 1, the first privately built and piloted craft to reach space, is now part of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. It won the X Prize by completing two space flights within two weeks. The spacecraft was launched from a height of over 15,000 meters by the mothercraft White Knight, which is powered by turbojets. Spaceship 1 uses a hybrid rocket motor fueled by nitrous oxide and rubber, achieving a height of over 102 kilometers after an 84-second rocket burn.

What significant achievement did Spaceship 1 accomplish last year?

• It became the first spacecraft to orbit the Earth.

• It set a record for the longest space flight.

• It was the first spacecraft to land on the Moon.

• It won the X Prize by completing two space flights within two weeks.

What is the role of the White Knight in the launch process of Spaceship 1?

• It carries Spaceship 1 to its launch height before release.

• It controls the navigation of Spaceship 1 in space.

• It serves as the main spacecraft for the mission.

• It provides fuel for Spaceship 1 during its ascent.

What type of engines power the White Knight?

• Hybrid rocket engines

• Conventional turbojets

• Ion thrusters

• Nuclear propulsion

What fuels the hybrid rocket motor of Spaceship 1?

• Nitrous oxide and rubber

• Liquid hydrogen and oxygen

• Methane and liquid oxygen

• Kerosene and liquid oxygen

To what height did Spaceship 1 ascend after its rocket motor shut down?

• 102 kilometers

• 50 kilometers

• 150 kilometers

• 75 kilometers